Corporate and Foundation Relations

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UMKC Foundation

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Corporate and foundation giving is an integral component of UMKC’s success. The UMKC Foundation is recognized as a successful partner for major corporate and foundation funders in Kansas City.

In the last two years UMKC has received significant support from corporations and foundations for a new building for the School of Computing and Engineering, development of the advocacy program in our School of Law as well as endowments that accelerate the work of the Health Sciences District.

New Building for School of Computing and Engineering

Reflecting the UMKC School of Computing and Engineering’s emphasis on research and technology, the new $32 million building will accommodate the school’s rapid growth – enrollment has more than doubled since 2008 – and state-of-the-art equipment that is necessary for cutting-edge research and development.

The new building would not be possible without broad support. More than 14 major foundation and corporate donors contributed over $32 million to further UMKC’s vision of being a leader in education and research. The expansion of the School of Computing and Engineering and the enhancement of facilities and equipment allow us to meet the demand for higher enrollment, prepare students with the equipment to accelerate their ability to research and produce advanced technology.

Support for School of Law Programming

The nationally ranked advocacy program at the UMKC School of Law is quickly escalating its exposure and recognition with critical support from foundation and corporate donors. Based on the program’s early success, the Kemper Family Foundations donated $1.4 million to establish the Stripp Endowed Chair and provide two advocacy fellows each year for five years. Alumni donors from local firms are enthusiastic supporters covering travel expenses and entry fees for advocacy competitions.

This support is enabling student teams to compete – and place – in national trial competitions. Three teams from the program advanced to national trial competitions last spring. Two teams ranked in the top four in the National Criminal Justice Trial Competition and the American Association of Justice competition. Additionally, the Trial Advocacy Program was ranked 21st in the nation in the 2018 U.S. News and World Report rankings.

Endowed Chair Conducts Vision Research

Peter Koulen, M.D., the Felix and Carmen Sabates Missouri Endowed Chair in Vision Research, is producing critical research that can diagnose early stage Alzheimer’s disease with a simple eye exam. This fast, non-invasive screening tool – much like an eye test at the DMV – was developed in conjunction with research therapies for glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Because the technology was developed through clinical studies with patients, the transition from discovery to implementation could be short. The funding provided for endowed chairs ensure continued support and completion for projects such as Dr. Koulen’s, allowing UMKC to be on the cutting edge of medical research.

Our gift directors are happy to explore your interests in investing in UMKC and help you identify to the best way to structure a partnership to move the university and Kansas City forward.